What is a risk factor associated with preterm birth (PTB)?

A history of preterm birth is a significant risk factor associated with future instances of preterm birth in subsequent pregnancies. Women who have previously delivered a baby preterm are at an increased risk of experiencing preterm labor or delivering preterm again. This increased risk can be attributed to various factors, including underlying uterine or cervical abnormalities, a history of infections, or other medical conditions that may recur in subsequent pregnancies.

While other factors such as high maternal BMI, advanced maternal age, and single fetal gestation can influence pregnancy outcomes, the specific link between a prior preterm birth and future pregnancies underscores the importance of thorough patient history evaluation in obstetric care. Understanding this risk can help healthcare providers develop appropriate monitoring and intervention strategies for women with such a history.